Gerspach (pictured) joins the company from Cint, where he had spent over nine years, most recently as vice-president of Central Europe.

At Appinio, he will focus on helping the company grow its strategic partner businesses, specifically with research institutes, providers of syndicated data and other companies in the market research landscape.

Based in Berlin, he will report to Jonathan Kurfess, Appinio chief executive and co-founder.

Kurfess said: "In this industry, having strong partnerships based on trust is essential, so having Jan, who knows the industry like the back of his hand, is invaluable. I have complete faith that with Jan’s strong leadership qualities and his international experience, Appinio will continue to grow strongly."